Psychiatrists in Kalama, WA
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Well Thought, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Longview, WA 98632
Acknowledging your having a problem and asking for help is hard, and you don't want to wait weeks or months to get the help you need - this can be both frustrating and dangerous! Your Primary Care Provider is great for many of your needs, but for mental health you really want to be seen by someone who specializes in psychiatric care. You want to get the help you need now, and with current changes in laws controlling healthcare delivery it's more important than ever to get established with a provider near you to avoid interruption in your care!
Acknowledging your having a problem and asking for help is hard, and you don't want to wait weeks or months to get the help you need - this can be both frustrating and dangerous! Your Primary Care Provider is great for many of your needs, but for mental health you really want to be seen by someone who specializes in psychiatric care. You want to get the help you need now, and with current changes in laws controlling healthcare delivery it's more important than ever to get established with a provider near you to avoid interruption in your care!
As a licensed ARNP in Washington State with a specialty in psychiatry I prescribe medications to assist you in overcoming the challenges you face. I strive to provide a comfortable space where you can explore your concerns with a compassionate and objective other; and access the resilience that I believe lies within us all. Clients see me for issues related to stress and life transition, depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma and bipolar mood disorders. I am accepting new clients.
As a licensed ARNP in Washington State with a specialty in psychiatry I prescribe medications to assist you in overcoming the challenges you face. I strive to provide a comfortable space where you can explore your concerns with a compassionate and objective other; and access the resilience that I believe lies within us all. Clients see me for issues related to stress and life transition, depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma and bipolar mood disorders. I am accepting new clients.
I have been practicing psychiatry for over 20 years. I have extensive experience with schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Major Depression, Refractory Major Depression, Bipolar Mood D/O, Borderline Personality D/O, Addiction, and Dual Diagnosis. My ideal patient is just one who keeps trying. We will work with you to find the right thing. All I ask is that even on those days you feel like you’re done trying or you want to give up, that you come anyway. That’s when we need to see you the most. Here at TACtelepsychiatry.com we work together until you feel better.
I have been practicing psychiatry for over 20 years. I have extensive experience with schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Major Depression, Refractory Major Depression, Bipolar Mood D/O, Borderline Personality D/O, Addiction, and Dual Diagnosis. My ideal patient is just one who keeps trying. We will work with you to find the right thing. All I ask is that even on those days you feel like you’re done trying or you want to give up, that you come anyway. That’s when we need to see you the most. Here at TACtelepsychiatry.com we work together until you feel better.
Please call 360-414-8600 to talk with front office staff for questions in how to connect with me for an initial intake appointment to begin services for your Mental Well-Being Tailored To You! I am passionate about treating the 'whole person' and I value my client's voice and interprofessional collaboration to provide a client-centered, strength-based approach to my client's healthcare treatment. I have extensive clinical experience, assessment skills and intuition that allows me to provide quality, personalized and informed treatment plan options.
Please call 360-414-8600 to talk with front office staff for questions in how to connect with me for an initial intake appointment to begin services for your Mental Well-Being Tailored To You! I am passionate about treating the 'whole person' and I value my client's voice and interprofessional collaboration to provide a client-centered, strength-based approach to my client's healthcare treatment. I have extensive clinical experience, assessment skills and intuition that allows me to provide quality, personalized and informed treatment plan options.
Online Psychiatrists
Cindy Moua
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98662
Aisha Mirza - "It's not the bruises on the body that hurt. It is the wounds of the heart and the scars on my mind." Yes, I am accepting NEW patients. Please email me and I will respond in 1-2 business days.
Aisha Mirza - "It's not the bruises on the body that hurt. It is the wounds of the heart and the scars on my mind." Yes, I am accepting NEW patients. Please email me and I will respond in 1-2 business days.
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98501
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide holistic online psychiatry services (telemedicine), so that you can conveniently be seen in the comfort of your home for appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. My aim is for you to truly thrive at your best! You can conveniently self-schedule a holistic psychiatry video appointment right now at: pwpsychiatry.com/WA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide holistic online psychiatry services (telemedicine), so that you can conveniently be seen in the comfort of your home for appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. My aim is for you to truly thrive at your best! You can conveniently self-schedule a holistic psychiatry video appointment right now at: pwpsychiatry.com/WA
Dorothy Chadika Burrell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98662
My name is Dorothy Burrell, and I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner with expertise in psychiatry and family medicine. South University awarded me a Master of Science in Nursing with honors and a family medicine specialty. I completed my post-master certificate in psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Norwich University. I hold national certification with the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and the American Nurses Credentialing Center. I am currently licensed to practice in Oregon and Washington.
My name is Dorothy Burrell, and I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner with expertise in psychiatry and family medicine. South University awarded me a Master of Science in Nursing with honors and a family medicine specialty. I completed my post-master certificate in psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Norwich University. I hold national certification with the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and the American Nurses Credentialing Center. I am currently licensed to practice in Oregon and Washington.
Amanda P Bailey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, LMHC, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Federal Way, WA 98003
If you are considering starting medication for depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns, I can help you decide the best course of action, whether it is medication or a different avenue. As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I do medication management with adults. I work with a variety of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression and bipolar, as well as mental health treatment with pregnant and postpartum women. I will work with you to determine a plan appropriate for your individual needs, which may include therapy, medication or both.
If you are considering starting medication for depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns, I can help you decide the best course of action, whether it is medication or a different avenue. As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I do medication management with adults. I work with a variety of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression and bipolar, as well as mental health treatment with pregnant and postpartum women. I will work with you to determine a plan appropriate for your individual needs, which may include therapy, medication or both.
Adam Ellis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660 (Online Only)
Adam Ellis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has earned degrees from the University of California, Irvine, The George Washington University, and most recently, a Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Pennsylvania. He has worked with both adult and adolescent psychiatric populations since 2015, and he enjoys engaging with diverse patients who have a broad range of mental health needs. While serving 20 years as a naval officer, Adam developed strong active listening skills and a high level of consideration and respect for others.
Adam Ellis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has earned degrees from the University of California, Irvine, The George Washington University, and most recently, a Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Pennsylvania. He has worked with both adult and adolescent psychiatric populations since 2015, and he enjoys engaging with diverse patients who have a broad range of mental health needs. While serving 20 years as a naval officer, Adam developed strong active listening skills and a high level of consideration and respect for others.
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98402
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
"Do you have a goal to accept or change old habits? Maybe you want to sleep more peacefully? Navigate life transitions with more resilience? Handle stress confidently? Parent harmoniously? Relate authentically? Emotional wellness therapy can help to nurture confidence and grow skills in what matters most to you. Through compassionate insightful attention to your strengths and dreams, experience more of the essence of what you desire. Learn what obstacles may have to teach. Evidence based health psychology tools are offered to support you on your journey to greater inner peace."
"Do you have a goal to accept or change old habits? Maybe you want to sleep more peacefully? Navigate life transitions with more resilience? Handle stress confidently? Parent harmoniously? Relate authentically? Emotional wellness therapy can help to nurture confidence and grow skills in what matters most to you. Through compassionate insightful attention to your strengths and dreams, experience more of the essence of what you desire. Learn what obstacles may have to teach. Evidence based health psychology tools are offered to support you on your journey to greater inner peace."
Jennifer A Rubio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lakewood, WA 98499 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), licensed as an ARNP with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from The University of Washington. I am currently accepting adult and pediatric patients. I typically focus my practice on older children and adolescents ages 8-20. I specialize in psychiatric assessments and diagnostics in tandem with psychiatric medication management while providing brief psychotherapy and psycho-education to patients and their families.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), licensed as an ARNP with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from The University of Washington. I am currently accepting adult and pediatric patients. I typically focus my practice on older children and adolescents ages 8-20. I specialize in psychiatric assessments and diagnostics in tandem with psychiatric medication management while providing brief psychotherapy and psycho-education to patients and their families.
Currently accepting telehealth clients in Washington State and in-person appointments in Tacoma, WA. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing comprehensive, trauma-informed, and inclusive mental health care. I am a doctorally prepared nurse practitioner with training from Pacific Lutheran University and Johns Hopkins University. I bring 10 years of experience working in a variety of healthcare settings. I use a patient-centered collaborative approach to treatment and recognize that health is a complex system shaped by people’s environments, family systems, genetics, and lived experiences.
Currently accepting telehealth clients in Washington State and in-person appointments in Tacoma, WA. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing comprehensive, trauma-informed, and inclusive mental health care. I am a doctorally prepared nurse practitioner with training from Pacific Lutheran University and Johns Hopkins University. I bring 10 years of experience working in a variety of healthcare settings. I use a patient-centered collaborative approach to treatment and recognize that health is a complex system shaped by people’s environments, family systems, genetics, and lived experiences.
Nancy Masters
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660 (Online Only)
Nancy graduated from Washington State University with a Master of Science in Nursing, and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has more than 10 years of experience and specializes in treating patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar and sleep disorders, as well as patients in the LGBTQIA+ community with care needs related to gender dysphoria/transgender-related mental health care. She also offers online opioid addiction treatment with medication. She treats patients ages 16-64 in Oregon and Washington.
Nancy graduated from Washington State University with a Master of Science in Nursing, and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has more than 10 years of experience and specializes in treating patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar and sleep disorders, as well as patients in the LGBTQIA+ community with care needs related to gender dysphoria/transgender-related mental health care. She also offers online opioid addiction treatment with medication. She treats patients ages 16-64 in Oregon and Washington.
Balance Psychiatric Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shelton, WA 98584
As a PMHNP-BC in a rural, underserved, small community, I'm passionate about providing medication management services and serving my community. I understand the importance of treating people in a holistic manner, to maintain a balanced state so wellness is achieved. I focus on a “whole patient” approach and “patient-centered care” for better outcomes. For one to live their best life there must be balance in sleep hygiene, diet, and exercise. I strive to help patients reach their best potential, psychiatrically after other options have been exhausted through medication management and education. I look forward to serving my community.
As a PMHNP-BC in a rural, underserved, small community, I'm passionate about providing medication management services and serving my community. I understand the importance of treating people in a holistic manner, to maintain a balanced state so wellness is achieved. I focus on a “whole patient” approach and “patient-centered care” for better outcomes. For one to live their best life there must be balance in sleep hygiene, diet, and exercise. I strive to help patients reach their best potential, psychiatrically after other options have been exhausted through medication management and education. I look forward to serving my community.
I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive authority in Washington State. I have 25 years of experience in the treatment of attention deficit/ hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, insomnia, behavioral/ impulse control disorders, and thought disorders. I received my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Wright State University (WSU) in Dayton, OH, and my Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from California State University Long Beach, CA (CSULB). I am board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) to provide psychiatric-mental health treatment, for children, adolescents, and adults.
I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive authority in Washington State. I have 25 years of experience in the treatment of attention deficit/ hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, insomnia, behavioral/ impulse control disorders, and thought disorders. I received my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Wright State University (WSU) in Dayton, OH, and my Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from California State University Long Beach, CA (CSULB). I am board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) to provide psychiatric-mental health treatment, for children, adolescents, and adults.
Are you feeling down or hopeless about your future? Do you always feeling anxious or have panic attacks that you are scared to go out in public? Are you struggling to concentrate better on tasks either at work or in school? You are not alone. We are here to help you balance your physical and mental health and improve your performance. We treat clients with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, and many more. We are currently ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. CHECK OUT WHAT OTHER CLIENTS ARE SAYING ABOUT US AT: https://provider.kareo.com/paul-okoronkwo
Are you feeling down or hopeless about your future? Do you always feeling anxious or have panic attacks that you are scared to go out in public? Are you struggling to concentrate better on tasks either at work or in school? You are not alone. We are here to help you balance your physical and mental health and improve your performance. We treat clients with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, and many more. We are currently ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. CHECK OUT WHAT OTHER CLIENTS ARE SAYING ABOUT US AT: https://provider.kareo.com/paul-okoronkwo
Hello, I'm Dr. Shannon Corbin. I went to medical school at the University of Washington (UW), where I also completed my residency in Psychiatry. I am a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (the "˜official' way of saying that I am a board-certified specialist). As a psychiatrist I see only adults, with special interests in older adults, women, veterans and people managing long-term health conditions. I've a strong interest in integrated care and in reaching people who've potentially been underserved by our health care systems.
Hello, I'm Dr. Shannon Corbin. I went to medical school at the University of Washington (UW), where I also completed my residency in Psychiatry. I am a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (the "˜official' way of saying that I am a board-certified specialist). As a psychiatrist I see only adults, with special interests in older adults, women, veterans and people managing long-term health conditions. I've a strong interest in integrated care and in reaching people who've potentially been underserved by our health care systems.
Jaime Chabuz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, CNM, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98371 (Online Only)
I believe that mental health is an essential component of your whole health & well-being. With this philosophy, I offer psychiatric & mental health care through a holistic & integrative lens, supporting you in your journey to wellness. Many factors in life can contribute to the mental health symptoms we experience, including sudden life changes, big transitions, situational stressors, & health-related concerns. My approach goes beyond focusing solely on diagnoses & medication. Instead, we will address the whole you—mind, body, & spirit—to create a comprehensive path toward healing & well-being. Telehealth services in WA, AZ & DC.
I believe that mental health is an essential component of your whole health & well-being. With this philosophy, I offer psychiatric & mental health care through a holistic & integrative lens, supporting you in your journey to wellness. Many factors in life can contribute to the mental health symptoms we experience, including sudden life changes, big transitions, situational stressors, & health-related concerns. My approach goes beyond focusing solely on diagnoses & medication. Instead, we will address the whole you—mind, body, & spirit—to create a comprehensive path toward healing & well-being. Telehealth services in WA, AZ & DC.
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Number of Psychiatrists in Kalama, WA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Kalama, WA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Obesity |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Moda Health |
How Psychiatrists in Kalama, WA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Kalama?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.